“A twisted family betrayal”: Imposter is Channel 5’s Succession-like drama where no one can be trusted

If you thought Succession was as bitter as family feuds get, Channel 5 is bringing us a new drama that looks set to give it a run for its money. Imposter is the irresistibly compulsive series with a twisted family betrayal at the heart of it – and the advice its characters could do with taking? Trust no one.

Starring Neighbours’ Jackie Woodburne and Waterloo Road star Kym Marsh, the Australia-set series will introduce us to matriarch Helen, who refuses to sell her splashy seaside hotel, despite her adult children’s wishes for her to do so. Cue the arrival of a secret daughter who may not be exactly who she says she is, a major betrayal and a murder – and you’ve got yourself the sort of series we'll all be hooked on in no time.

Ahead of Imposter's arrival on our screens, here's everything you need to know about the new Channel 5 series, including the cast, plot and details of its release.

What is Imposter about?

The four-part Australia-set series centres around a splashy seaside hotel and a bitter family dispute - and betrayal - that takes place as a result of its existence. You see, matriarch Helen refuses to sell the hotel, despite mounting pressure from her three adult children. And that’s just the start of the drama.

Helen is also hiding a secret: a daughter, Amanda, who she gave up for adoption decades ago. When she suddenly enters her life again, Helen welcomes her with open arms - but is Amanda who she claims to be? If the title of the series is anything to go by, probably not.

According to the official synopsis, “The lucrative hotel is the ultimate prize and a twisted scheme soon spirals into betrayal and ultimately, murder.” With Kym Marsh and Jackie Neighbours legend Jackie Woodburne (pictured above) set to star, it’s the sort of drama that TV dreams are made of.

The series is part of a raft of new shows announced by Channel 5, including The Family Secret, Cooper and Fry and Number One Fan. Sebastian Cardwell, deputy chief content officer and head of scripted, Paramount UK, has said of the latest offerings: “From brand new thrillers and character-driven mysteries to the much-anticipated return of audience favourites, we’re continuing to build a rich and distinctive drama offering.

“These titles reflect our commitment to delivering compelling, accessible British drama that resonates with viewers across the UK. We look forward to announcing further titles in the coming months.”

Who's in the cast of Imposter?

The cast of Imposter includes:

• Kym Marsh (Waterloo Road, Coronation Street)
• Jackie Woodburne (Neighbours)

As it stands, no further cast members have been announced, but we're expecting more details to be released soon, so we'll update you as soon as we hear more.

How can I watch Imposter?

While Channel 5 hasn’t yet shared a release date for Imposter, we do know that the series is set to begin production in Victoria, Australia, this summer. As soon as we have a release date, we’ll share it here.

What other TV dramas can I watch now?

Looking for something binge-worthy you can watch right now? From a second series of ITV's Karen Pirie to Netflix's gripping new murder mystery Untamed, you can check out our pick of the best TV dramas to watch this July here.